Perceptions of frailty and frailty screening of people living with HIV and their healthcare professionals in Ethiopia: A qualitative study

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Abstract Background People with HIV (PWH) are an ageing population with increased risk of comorbidities, like frailty. By 2040, 25% of PLWH in sub-Saharan Africa will be over 50 years old, posing new challenges for healthcare systems. This study aims to explore perceptions of frailty and frailty screening among PWH and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in southern Ethiopia. Methods In-depth interviews and focus groups were conducted with PWH and HCPs recruited from three hospitals in southern Ethiopia. Pseudonymised transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results 26 PWH and 12 HCPs participated in interviews or focus groups. Both groups noted that frailty is not discussed in HIV settings. HCPs feared discouraging clients by discussing frailty, though both groups favoured increased solution-focussed discussions. PWH cited socio-economic challenges as key influencing factors and impacts of frailty. Conclusions The findings underscore the need for increased frailty discussions and holistic frailty interventions integrating physical and social support.

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